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The Rugby League World Cup will leave a lasting legacy in West Cumbria, according to organisers speaking today.

Thousands of rugby enthusiasts attended both games at Derwent Park to cheer on Scotland as they took on Tonga and Italy.

Organisers say tourism, the game and the community have all benefitted from hosting the Scottish team over the two week period.

The matches were complimented by a strong community engagement programme which saw the World Cup visit schools across the county and schoolchildren were heavily involved on match days and during the parades.

Organisers at Workington Town plan to continue their community engagement programmes following the World Cup success.

Scotland coach Steve McCormack praised west Cumbrian fans again last night after a crowd of more than seven thousand saw his side draw with Italy and keep their hopes of progressing in the Rugby League World Cup alive.